Tips to Using Snapchat, Vine, Periscope, and Flickr

We have discussed a lot of the major social media platforms being used by businesses today, but interestingly, there are still plenty out there!

Of all the social media platforms we have discussed previously, Snapchat is a horse of another color. Despite its unique nature and characteristics, many businesses are using it as a fun way to connect with its target market.

There are several ways to market your business on Snapchat, but here are 7 ideas that really stood out to me:

1. Coupons
This platform’s immediacy provides customers with an urgent incentive to shop. Offering calls-to-action on this platform can entice customers.

2. Product updates/demo
It’s now possible to create an immediate, short video introducing new features you want your customers to be ware of. Snapchat is a great way to create a buzz about new products.

3. Contests
Running a contest is a great way to engage your audience and get people talking about your business.

4. Promote events
Utilize Snapchat to direct your follower to events and explain the date and time. You could also post a live update during the event.

5. Behind-the-scenes footage
This is a great way to show customers the personality of your brand and help them emotionally connect with your business.

6. Encourage followers to sign up for your email list
Make sure you are keeping in contact with your current and potential customers. Encourage your followers to sign up to your email list by mentioning email campaigns in your snapchat stories.

7. Fun tidbits
Everyone enjoys something fun every once and awhile. Remember to take moments to have fun and be creative. This will increase follower engagement.

Companies are achieving great things by using Vine as a social media platform. It may not look like much on the surface, but it is an excellent tool for follower engagement. Here is how to utilize Vine for your business:

1. Harness the Power of the Share
Share and post content often. The more viewers, the more brand exposure you are getting. It might be only for a few seconds, but it can make a big impact.

2. Own It
Find your brand’s style and individuality. Getting people to remember your video and your brand are a challenge, so focus on standing out but remember to stay true to your brand.

3. Celebrate
Seasonal marketing seems unimportant, but many viewers will be searching these tags during these times, making it a great way to gain exposure.

5. Create
These videos are about being creative. 6 seconds may not be enough time to get your idea across, so feel free to continue it in more videos. An example can be seen in Oreo’s vines; the company created a large fan based simply by featuring their cookie over and over.

And then there is Periscope. This might be a platform that many of you are unfamiliar with. While slightly unknown, this live streaming video app is helping businesses everywhere. So instead of giving you tips to use Periscope, here are 6 big reasons you should be on it:

1. An unsaturated market
Unlike the other social media platforms we’ve discussed previously, Periscope is still growing. The majority of businesses have yet to embrace Periscope, making it a great opportunity for other businesses to fill in the gaps.

2. Real-time engagement
Nothing compares to viewers being able to ask questions that second and get immediate answers.

3. A showcase for the real you
The nature of this platform forces you to be authentic. Seeing a real person affects customers greatly, making them more comfortable to buy because its from a business they know and trust.

4. Unlimited business opportunities
There are many different ways businesses can use Periscope: live tutorials, Q&A sessions, showcases, special promos…the list goes on and on.

5. A whole new follower base
Most Periscope users are brand new-they are not the same ones that have been connecting with other social media sites from day one. This is a great opportunity to expand your brand awareness through different territory.

Lastly, I would like to discuss Flickr. This is a platform I feel that many businesses have forgotten. When it comes to image sharing, Instagram is not the only way to connect with your audience. Flickr is actually one of the my favorite photo sharing site because of it gives professional photographers a chance to connect with businesses. There’s a reason why people say Flickr is “the best alternative to Instagram.”

#1. Reverse Marketing
When you post on other social networking sites, embed links to your flickr in your pictures. This will drive more traffic to your Flickr account.

#2. Get a Professional Account
Having a professional account is surprisingly affordable and gives you the visibility you need as a business.

#3. Join Plenty Of Groups and Be Active
Groups are about fostering relationships with others and getting your name out there. The more you connect and contribute, the more people will know about your brand.

#4. Properly Tag and Organize Your Photos
Put obvious, precise tags in your post. Using the wrong tag can prevent your photo from coming up in a search.

#5. Allow Creative Commons Use
Flick has a creative commons section, which is used by multitudes when looking for a copyright free image. This can help you get a wider viewing.

As you can see, there are many different choices for connecting on social media. I would recommend studying your target market and using what sites they are already on. Be creative in your approach to these platforms and have fun!